Unlicensed assistants are most often classified as what?

Unlicensed assistants in a real estate context are most often classified as employees. This classification is significant because it establishes a clear employer-employee relationship, which carries specific legal implications and responsibilities for both parties. As employees, these assistants are entitled to receive wages, benefits, and protections under labor laws, which are not afforded to independent contractors or unpaid interns.

Employees are typically subject to the control and direction of their employer regarding how tasks are to be performed, while independent contractors operate more autonomously and assume more risk in their business. This distinction clarifies the worker's status and ensures that employers comply with relevant regulations regarding wages, hours, and working conditions.

In the context of real estate, licensed agents may hire unlicensed assistants for support tasks that do not require a real estate license, such as administrative work or clerical duties. By categorizing them as employees, brokers can provide proper training and oversight to ensure compliance with regulations while also fostering a productive working relationship.